Eight dead, 15 hurt as minibus plunges into drain on Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

A tragic accident on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway claimed eight lives on Wednesday when a minibus suddenly departed the roadway and plummeted into a deep drainage channel in Kota district, Rajasthan. The impact left 15 additional passengers with injuries ranging from minor to severe.

Investigations conducted by local authorities suggest the driver may have fallen asleep or experienced a sudden drowsy spell while navigating the busy eight-lane expressway. The loss of control sent the vehicle careening off the highway before it struck the drain and overturned.

Emergency response teams reached the scene quickly and transported injured passengers to nearby medical facilities for treatment. The deceased were removed from the wreckage and sent for autopsy procedures. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation as authorities collect evidence and statements from surviving passengers and witnesses.

The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on India's major highways, particularly regarding driver fatigue during long-distance journeys. Authorities have reiterated the importance of regular rest breaks for commercial vehicle operators and adherence to speed regulations along the expressway.